Extension to create more living space

Bern , April 2024

Adding up to two storeys to residential buildings should increase the number of flats in cities. This is what the FDP is proposing together with FDP Urban. The maximum height should be raised by at least three metres in all residential areas, except in the case of townscape and monument protection.

The densification of Swiss cities should also be realised upwards. This is what the FDP is calling for together with FDP Urban, an initiative of FDP city parties. According to a press release, they propose increasing the permitted building height in all residential zones by one to two storeys. In addition, the maximum permitted height of existing buildings should be increased by at least three metres.

The increase in height would make it possible to build flats without building over existing green spaces. Areas with protected townscapes or listed buildings are to be excluded.

The FDP points out that similar proposals have already been implemented in Geneva since 2008. The FDP City of Zurich is currently collecting signatures for its municipal popular initiative “More living space by adding storeys – neighbourhood-friendly and sustainable”. The FDP Switzerland submitted a 6-point plan against the housing shortage in 2023. It also proposed increasing the utilisation rate by adding storeys to buildings, among other things.

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